Feeding the soul with southern charm
and the bounty of Virginia.

In 2017 upon completion of the building renovation, Junction opened its doors. A Southwestern style restaurant headed by Melissa Close-Hart. A short 3 years later in 2020 Junction closed due to the pandemic

During this time, four long time employees; Michelle Moshier (Director of Operations), Matthew Hart (Executive Chef, The Local), Melissa Close-Hart (Executive Chef, Mockingbird) and Helen Aker (Director of Catering), came together to form a new partnership.

From this partnership arose Mockingbird, A passion project for Melissa that brings her Southern Alabama Roots to Charlottesville, Virginia. The name referring to “To Kill A Mockingbird”, a story of good over evil in a small town in Alabama, represents our connection to the Deep South and the southern cuisine flavors of our menu.

Chef Melissa, through the use of recipes that harken her childhood, strives to bring the taste of the south to your table. Utilizing loads of love, soul and the freshest ingredient from the bounty of Virginia.